Adam Sandler is expressing his disappointment over the loss of a significant character in the upcoming sequel to “Happy Gilmore,” set to premiere on Netflix on July 25. The role of Chubbs Peterson, originally portrayed by Carl Weathers in the 1996 film, was to play a pivotal part in the sequel. Unfortunately, Weathers passed away in February 2024, prompting a major rewrite of the story.
Sandler shared his sentiments during an interview with Collider, stating, “We had a painful change. Carl Weathers had a massive part. I would talk to Carl, and we were excited, and then Carl passed away. We had to rewrite a lot of the stuff.” The original script even included sequences where Chubbs would appear in Happy’s dreams, highlighting his enduring influence on the character’s journey.
Weathers’ character, a once-pro golfer who meets an untimely demise due to an alligator attack, had already faced a tragic end in the original film. Despite this, Sandler and director Kyle Newacheck have made it clear that the spirit of Chubbs will still resonate throughout the sequel. Newacheck emphasized the importance of the character, saying, “You can’t make Happy Gilmore without Chubbs Peterson. It doesn’t exist.”
As the sequel approaches its release, the filmmakers are committed to celebrating the legacy of Carl Weathers and Chubbs Peterson, ensuring that his influence is felt, even if he is not physically present on screen. This dedication not only honors Weathers’ contribution to the original film but also reflects the lasting impact he had on fans and the story itself.
In light of these developments, the sequel to “Happy Gilmore” continues to generate interest and anticipation, as audiences look forward to how the beloved characters and themes will evolve while paying tribute to those we’ve lost.